“Start with a polarising stereotype, saturate with unapologetic flaws, and then add in a dash of humanity for good measure,” Monson told us in a phone interview.

“Snooki is this partygirl with tons and tons of make-up and she’s loud and obnoxious,” explained Monson. “But then she cries and calls her mum or gets pregnant or something and then you find yourself kind of liking her.”

This draws people in because they can’t decide whether they like the character or not, Monson said. The confusion keeps viewers entertained and increases the show and character’s longevity.